None of us here are involved in the deal so are on the outside looking in.If it is just a 5 year primary term it sounds like a renewal option because they are longer than that to start. 5 years is very hard to get decent finance on so you must be paying cash or putting 50% down.    

“It is extremely important for everyone involved in the seller finance industry, from the small business owner to the potential homeowner whose only path to homeownership is through seller financing, that we all join together to make a concerted effort to achieve regulatory relief from the burdens, a lot of them as a result of unintended consequences, from Dodd-Frank and CFPB legislation.

That said, any agent who has experience working with short sales foreclosures - transactions which involve working directly with the bank - can probably help you if there is a specific property you want to make an offer on.I'll shoot you a PM.

Also, if I pass on the house because of the level of rehab needed, should I try and get a wholesaler involved?

I am new to the real estate community, looking to learn more about and get involved with low or no money investing and then grow into other avenues of real estate investing.

What is the best ways that you have had success with to find foreclosres and do I need  to involve an agent?

Fortunately she has family that lives on the same road as the property and can keep "an eye on it", but will not be involved in any property management needs.

I am always interested in new opportunities, as long as it makes sense for everyone involved.  

The process involves hiring an architect for plan submissions to the board.  

.#2 - You Don't Need to Just Buy a Property to Be Involved in Real EstateI've said this before in my other posts, but my experience have helped drill home this one very important point - If you don't have money or experience and you want to get involved in real estate, find a way to GIVE VALUE to others.